Compounding allows a physician to prescribe and a pharmacist to prepare a customized medication that is not available commercially, or to place an available medication in a different dosage form to meet specific patient need and to improve patient compliance. Since the 90ís, the practice of compounding has been experiencing renewed popularity as the benefits have once again been recognized.

Medications can be compounded into dosage forms that are most appropriate to treat each patient. Desired active ingredient(s) can be compounded into creams, ointments and gels for topical or transdermal administration. In order for medications to be absorbed transdermally, it is critical that an appropriate base and proper compounding technique be used. Medication can be easily measured using an oral topical dispenser.

WHY COMPOUND

There are several reasons why pharmacists compound prescription medications:

The most important is patient noncompliance.

Sensitivity to colors, dyes, and preservatives.

Sensitivity to standard drug strengths.

Unable to swallow oral (tablets, capsules) - suspensions and suppositories may be a solution.

Unable to tolerate oral medications - use of transdermals may be a solution.

Desired strength not available.

Medications no longer supplied by the manufacturer, but not for safety reasons - may still be the medication desired for a specific medical condition.